Exploring Gender Concerns and Improving the quality of life in a patient of Gender Dysphoria : A Case Report

BACKGROUND : Previously known as Gender Identity Disorder, the name was revised to Gender Dysphoria in DSM-5 since identifying as another gender is not a disorder, but the depression and anxiety caused due to being in the wrong body, is dysphoria which is a concern. There is a plethora of challenges faced by them due to the rejection they face not just from the society but also their families resulting to inadequate medical and mental health care. Here is a case of a 31 years unmarried biologically assigned male resident of Nagpur who presented with feelings of being trapped in the wrong body and a strong dissatisfaction with his current biological gender with a strong desire to get rid of the primary male sexual characteristics.Patient was diagnosed as a case of gender dysphoria and was asked to maintain the female role for at least 6 months. Following which 2 psychiatrists signed off and then the patient was referred to surgery for SRS which was carried out successfully. RESULT : Diagnosis was made based on patient's inner feelings of gender identity dilemma and was psycho-educated that the distress experienced by them is not inherent rather a result of social rejection and discrimination. Patient was advised regular follow ups for therapy aiming to improve psychological well being and quality life and to give a sense of self fulfilment to the patient.